Cadlina pellucida, commonly known as the “pellucid cadlina,” is a species of sea slug, a type of marine gastropod mollusc that belongs to the family Cadlinidae. It is a captivating creature with a distinctive appearance and an intriguing lifestyle.
Description & Characteristics
Cadlina pellucida is a relatively small nudibranch, reaching a maximum size of about 25 millimeters. Its body is characterized by a translucent white or pale yellow coloration, allowing the internal organs to be faintly visible. The mantle is smooth and has no prominent tubercles or cerata (the finger-like projections found on many nudibranchs). Along the dorsal surface, there are a series of small, white spots arranged in a line, giving the slug a somewhat dotted appearance. The rhinophores, the sensory organs used for smell, are short and club-shaped, while the oral tentacles, used for feeding, are small and rounded. Cadlina pellucida has a distinctive “tail” that is typically curled or coiled.
Habitat and Occurrence
Cadlina pellucida is primarily found in the intertidal zone and shallow subtidal waters, inhabiting rocky and sandy shores. Its distribution is concentrated in the northeastern Pacific Ocean, stretching from Alaska to California. It is frequently observed in the infralittoral zone, which is the region below the lowest low tide mark, but it can also be found in the littoral zone, the area between the high and low tide marks. This suggests that Cadlina pellucida is adaptable to a range of marine environments, with a preference for coastal habitats.
Taxonomy
Cadlina pellucida is classified within the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Cadlinidae. This taxonomic placement reflects its unique characteristics as a shell-less gastropod with a distinct body shape and lifestyle. It is one of many species within the Cadlinidae family, which are known for their relatively simple body forms and often bright coloration.
Feeding
Cadlina pellucida is a carnivore, feeding primarily on sponges. Its diet consists of various sponge species, with a particular preference for the genus Halichondria. This feeding strategy is typical of many nudibranchs, which have evolved to specialize in consuming specific prey items. Cadlina pellucida utilizes its radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in teeth, to scrape and ingest sponge tissue.
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